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Depression is one of the most common problems experienced by people with
chronic pain. If the depressive symptoms are related to pain or side effects of
medicine, doctors can make adjustments in medications to alleviate these
symptoms. If the depression is a separate problem, it can be treated on its own.
Antidepressants can treat both pain and depression
In addition to being a primary treatment for depression, antidepressants are
effective in the treatment of many chronic pain syndromes, such as neuropathic
(nerve-related) disorders. Treatment with antidepressant drugs can start to work
within a few weeks.
Many antidepressant medicines are available to treat depression. These drugs
work by altering the level of certain chemicals in the brain, which are
responsible for transferring messages between brain cells. Some
antidepressants include:
- citalopram
(brand name Celexa)
- fluoxetine
(brand name Prozac)
- sertraline
(brand name Zoloft)
- amitriptyline
(brand name Elavil)
- desipramine
(brand name Norpramin)
- venlafaxine
(brand name Effexor)
- nefazodone
(brand name Serzone)
- bupropion
(brand name Wellbutrin)
Psychotherapy can help with depression
Psychotherapy, also called therapy, refers to a variety of techniques used to
treat depression. Psychotherapy involves talking to a licensed professional who
helps the depressed person:
- Focus on the behaviors, emotions, and ideas that
contribute to depression.
- Understand and identify the life problems or
events, such as a major illness, a death in the family, a loss of a job, or a
divorce, that contribute to depression and help them understand which aspects
of those problems they may be able to solve or improve.
- Regain a sense of control and pleasure in life.
Many people with depression can be treated successfully with medicine,
psychotherapy, or a combination of both.
Early treatment for depression is best
Early diagnosis and treatment for depression can reduce distress, as well as
the risk of complications and suicide. People who get treatment for depression
that occurs at the same time as chronic pain often experience an improvement in
their overall medical condition, a better quality of life, and are more easily
able to stick to their treatment plans.
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